By Jon Chown
Lifeguard Kyra Sheeper and local resident Jimmy Hope were recently recognized by the Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County for rescuing a teenage girl from drowning at Manresa Beach on Jan. 31.
According to fire officials, there were 4- to 5-foot swells that day and heavy riptides. The girl, who was boogie boarding, got sucked out by one of the tides and was around 300 yards from shore being battered by outer reef waves.
Thankfully, both Sheeper and Hope spotted her. Hope was walking on the beach when he saw her, and Sheeper was at her lifeguard station. Both leapt into action. She called it in and Hope hit the surf.
“I just kind of saw her bobbing around and made my way over through the rip and then put her on my board,” he said.
He got her about halfway to shore and transferred her to Sheeper, who sped her to shore where CPR could be performed. The two were given “Citizen Hero” awards for their brave, life-saving effort.
“It’s just a testament that we need our community members to help out,” said Fire Chief Nigel Miller. “I just want to thank both of you personally for your service.”
TOP PHOTO: Chief Nigel Miller presents Kyra Sheeper (far left) and Jimmy Hope with Citizen Hero awards on April 9.